Legal Question in Family Law in Massachusetts
I have been separated from my "husband" since April 2008.
In June of 2010, I filed for divorce for irretrievable breakdown (even though he was an alcoholic/abusive spouse).
He now has an attorney, I have been pro se up until now.
I have just concluded a legal settlement where I was awarded money. Am I legally obligated to report that on my financial statement even if I have yet to receive/cash the settlement payment? Is he entitled to any of that money since the lawsuit was filed over a year after we were separated?
Also, his attorney has requested a copy of my bank account records from April 2008 (the date of separation), on April 4th, 2008 I received our joint tax return of $10,000 (he barely worked in the 7 years we were married) and I used that money to support me and the kids as well as pay his rent/utilities/cost of living for over a year. Is he entitled to any of that money?
(we have no marital home) only a 2001 honda accord (which he can have for all I care) and nothing of significant value save for my 408k, which I know he is entitled to 50% of what ever I earned from our marriage date (Sept 2000) until April 2008.
We have 2 children 7YRS and 5YRS who have been in my sole custody since June 2009. He does not pay any child support.
Any advice would be greatly appreciated.
-K
1 Answer from Attorneys
Retain an attorney to petition the Court for what you and your children rightfully deserve. Good Luck!